Holi horror in Barsana: Viral video shows shocking harassment of women amid festivities

Barsana and Nandgaon, two towns in Uttar Pradesh, are well known for their vibrant and traditional Holi celebrations, drawing thousands of devotees and visitors from across the country. The festival, marked by the famous Lathmar Holi, is celebrated with great enthusiasm, where men and women engage in playful colour battles, creating a lively atmosphere. However, recent incidents of harassment and misconduct toward women have overshadowed the joyous occasion, raising serious concerns about safety during the festivities.

Viral Video Sparks Outrage

A video shared by actor and blogger Tushar Shukla has sparked widespread outrage, bringing attention to disturbing incidents of inappropriate behaviour targeting women. In the viral clip, Shukla, who visited Barsana to participate in the celebrations, voiced his concerns over the treatment of women during Holi.

“Today I went to play Holi in Barsana. Everything was great, it was fun. But I have a question – do only girls go to play Holi in Barsana? Why are they directly targeted in such an indecent manner? Men also come, so why not engage with them?” Shukla asked in the video.


The footage captured troubling scenes of women being harassed as they walked down the streets, with some individuals shouting crude remarks like “Make them wet” from behind. The video quickly gained traction online, with netizens expressing anger and disbelief at the behaviour witnessed during the celebrations.

Call for Responsibility and Respect

Shukla clarified that the issue was not limited to local residents but also involved outsiders participating in the festival. He urged everyone, both locals and visitors, to uphold the sanctity of the occasion.

“I am not saying that only locals are responsible. Outsiders are also involved in this. But I have a simple question – do you not have women in your homes? You’ve come to Barsana to enjoy the festival, but please, don’t defame this place or its culture. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, respect is paramount,” he stated.

Public Backlash on Social Media

Social media users reacted strongly to the post, with many echoing Shukla’s concerns. One user commented, “People have gone mad with their need to show off. Celebrate Holi in a respectful way, at home if necessary. Those who indulge in such mischief should be made to play Holi with their own mothers and sisters. They’ve turned this beautiful festival into a joke.”

Women, in particular, expressed their disappointment over the recurring issue of harassment during Holi. One female user remarked, “Such ill-mannered people tarnish the reputation of this sacred place. The women there should stand up and defend themselves against such low and cheap behaviour, even if it means using shoes.” Another added, “The way you’ve raised this issue is crucial. Women face these despicable acts regularly, and it’s time we address it head-on.”

While Holi is meant to be a celebration of unity, joy, and the arrival of spring, these recent incidents have highlighted a pressing need for stricter accountability and greater respect during the festivities. Many believe that cultural celebrations should not come at the cost of safety and dignity and that such behaviour should be addressed to ensure that Holi remains a festival of happiness for everyone.